This next cosplayer can be summed up in one word; dedicated. Not only are their cosplays stunning and their video editing skills amazing, they put out new content almost every day. On top of that, it is impossible for this cosplayer to NOT be photogenic. A lover of anime and the 80’s please welcome King Malus!
You have expressed a love for that 80s Anime aesthetic. What about it is attractive to you?
Everything. The style, the over dramatic scenarios, the “quotes” and sentences in general. It’s slowly coming back and becoming trendy, but at the time it was normal. To us now, it’s considered an aesthetic, something relatable, and just- to me- calming, relaxing, and a cool point in time.
You make very high-quality Tik Tok videos, what motivated you to start making them?
To be honest, my little sister was on it first when it was Musical.ly, and then along the way, I joined just for laughs and giggles. But then I started to get serious when I actually started gaining a fanbase, and some of my biggest inspirations were noticing me.
Certain cosplays, like your Jadeite, don’t look easy to create. What’s your process for making a cosplay?
To be 100% honest, I don’t plan or do anything. I roll with it, and if an idea comes- I try it. For the process of Jadeite, I took one of my shirts to do measurements, used poster board to hold the color up, and used ribbon and a glue gun to make the details. Jadeite was a one-time thing, so I wasn’t looking for perfection- but he still managed to come out somewhat well!
Orange Phoenix 2017 is a site you’ve written blog posts for about all things nerd/ otaku. How did you join that company and start blogging?
We actually met at a convention! They interviewed me there, BanzaiCon, and we’ve collabed and kept in touch ever since.
What was your first cosplay?
When I first started I had nothing but a long white wig, a short black wig, and a pair of blue contacts. I made up characters, but my first official character (without the actual cosplay) was Yato from Noragami.
Which of your cosplays is your favorite and why?
I’d have to say Deku. He’s one of the ones I’m most comfortable in both on social media and in public. I’ve done multiple versions of him and improve every time, and I still plan on improving on him.
What is the hardest thing about cosplaying for you?
Gaining back motivation and interest once it’s gone. As well as not comparing yourself to other cosplayers. However, in the end, it’s a matter of just trying your best and being the best you. Finding comfort in what you do and create and realize- this is me. This is my style, and no matter what, someone will like it and someone will be inspired by it.
How do you choose who to cosplay next?
It’s gonna seem weird, but they call to me in a way. If I see a certain character, and they appeal to me- I dig more into them and focus on them, and then that’s when I decide. Usually, those are my best cosplays too compared to someone requesting a cosplay and I do it, then not feeling them as much as one I connect with.
What is the next event we can expect to see you cosplay at?
Either Nashicon or my return to Animazement this year!
What is your advice for those just getting into cosplay?
Dedication, Determination, and Motivation. Go for it, do your best, and if you don’t like your best- strive to continuously do better. I believe you can, and I’m sure you know you can, so don’t feel defeated before your time has even started.
Where can we find you online?
Instagram: @kingmalus
Tiktok: @kingmaluss
Email: kingmaluss@gmail.com